Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his side must embrace their status as favourites for Saturday’s Soweto Derby, while warning that Kaizer Chiefs’ new management and players could bring a renewed energy to the contest.
Pirates have made an almost perfect start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season and sit alongside Mamelodi Sundowns as serious title contenders. They have taken 22 points from their opening eight matches, winning seven and drawing one.
The Buccaneers have scored 19 goals during that run and conceded only once. Their strong defensive record and attacking output have established them as the team to beat before they face their city rivals.
“We need to have positive arrogance. We have to accept this position as favourites, as champions,” Ouaddou told the media.
The coach, however, stressed that being expected to win would not guarantee victory against a Kaizer Chiefs team beginning a new era.
“We must accept it but we’re playing against new management, new players. To be favourite doesn’t mean you will win. There’s new energy,” he added.
Pirates are also competing in the CAF Champions League group stage, giving Ouaddou’s team another demand to manage during the campaign.
Kaizer Chiefs are fifth in the league after eight matches under coach Fernando Da Cruz. Amakhosi have 14 points from three wins and five draws, meaning they remain unbeaten despite criticism from sections of their support over their performances.
The Glamour Boys have scored 13 goals and conceded eight. They trail Pirates by eight points ahead of the derby.
The match gives Da Cruz’s side the chance to defeat the champions, answer their critics and gain momentum under the club’s new leadership.
“It’s the most supported game,” the Frenchman told journalists. “Sold out in six hours, one of the best games in Africa. It divides the country. It’s a good moment for South African football.
“We have worked well and confident, we know it will be hard against a good team. A big team, I have to credit Abdes for the job. But we are ready for the game,” concluded the former AS FAR and Lille coach.
